The Karnataka government has hosted a high-level delegation from Penang, Malaysia, to explore opportunities for strategic collaboration in key technology and innovation sectors. The visit focused on strengthening ties in areas such as semiconductors, deep tech, space technologies, smart cities, skilling, and innovation-led industrial growth.
The delegation was led by Jagdeep Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister II of Penang, and included senior officials from the Penang State Government, the Penang Island City Council, and the Consulate General of Malaysia in Chennai. They held discussions with Karnataka’s IT & BT Minister Priyank Kharge and senior officials of the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology.
During the meeting, both sides discussed their strengths and potential areas of cooperation. Karnataka highlighted its capabilities in software development, research and development, chip design, startups, deep tech, and talent development. Penang showcased its global leadership in electronics manufacturing, semiconductors, advanced materials, and industrial scale-up.
The Penang delegation expressed interest in moving towards a formal memorandum of understanding to institutionalise collaboration. Both sides agreed to focus on priority areas such as semiconductors and chip design, skilling and talent exchange, deep tech, space applications and smart cities.
Mr Kharge said Karnataka’s success is built on strong ecosystems in education, skilling, startups and R&D, while Penang has created a strong hardware and semiconductor base.
